A Trip to Town

 I know that many people associate a trip into the countryside as a unique day out. When you live permanently amongst green fields, however, a journey into a large town or city can generate equal novelty. 

Hence,  accompanying Mister E to a hospital appointment today, there was the thrill of dual carriageways, large roundabouts, traffic lights, and the sight of multitudes of people, many of whom were drinking takeaway coffee as they walked.

Leaving Mister E to face the staff-in-scrubs alone, I ventured across the road into a park. Perhaps as a countryside dweller it felt more enticing with its grass and trees than pounding pavements. I admit I was not disappointed by the bench seats beneath a myriad of mature foliage offering ringside views for people watching; there was a sculpture of sorts and, laid out as part of a trail alongside the pathway, an assortment of adult outdoor gym equipment. Yes, I tried it all, ensuring I remembered to sanitise my hands afterwards!

It was interesting to note just how many people appeared to take a diversion across the park rather than stick to the route around its perimeter, many stopping for a seat as they did so, pausing to read a paper or to empty that coffee cup. It was a lovely sunny morning and whilst the birdsong struggled to compete with the sound that emanated from nearby roadworks, there was still a beauty and peace about the place that only green spaces can bring.

I left feeling uplifted. It doesn't matter where we are, urban lawn or rural meadow,  nature and exercise  always have the ability to lighten the mood and elevate the spirits even in the middle of a city.